Will Tiki Barber Return To Football As A Carolina Panther?

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by Kimberly Tadlock / Steve Lyerly

Story Created: Jun 23, 2011 at 5:41 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 22, 2011 at 10:33 AM EDT

CHARLOTTE, NC – Following the off-season signing of 30-year old tight end Jeremy Shockey, and the rumors of a possible Jake Delhomme return, there's talk of another former star calling Carolina home.

Tiki Barber

After five years behind the desk on TV, former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber announced he wants to return to the NFL. Now, word is the 36-year-old may be an ideal fit for the Panthers.

Here's why:  There's no guarantee of DeAngleo Williams' will return. Barber's quick feet and slashing style of running made him elusive and powerful. If Tiki has retained those moves, his skills could be a valuable asset, especially with a rookie quarterback in the fold.  As a runner, Barber would supplement Jonathan Stewart.

Click here for more on Tiki's Carolina connection.

NFL Lockout

Hopefully, the NFL lockout is coming to an end. We know team owners are pushing hard for a rookie wage scale in the agreement.

According to the previous rules, #1 overall pick Cam Newton's rookie contract could have fetched him up to $60 million in guaranteed money, before even stepping foot onto an NFL field. But, that might not be the case anymore, because high rookie-contracts are likely the first thing on the cost-cutting chopping block.

Former top picks, St. Louis Rams QB Sam Bradford received $50 million and Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford got $41 million guaranteed. So, what about Cam's salary for next year? Team owner Jerry Richardson is one of the leaders trying to reduce the rookie wage. So, we don't think Cam will get anywhere close to that $ 50 million range.

Steve Smith's Future

One thing is for certain: Cam wants Steve Smith to stay in Charlotte.

Over the spring, rumors have swirled about Smith's desires to leave the Panthers. But, Newton is lobbying to keep the four-time pro bowler on the team.

We're told Smith briefly contemplated retiring this off-season as his wife dealt with health issues. However, with those concerns behind him, he'll need to decide if he wants to be Carolina's premiere receiver at age 32.

**Sound off on the questions you want me to address! Send your comments and emails to Steve at SportsSoundOff@foxcharlotte.com

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